SENATOR Cynthia Villar is pushing for measure providing fresh graduates of Philippine Tertiary Education, Universities, College and Training Institutions of a one-time cash grant of P5,000 which they can utilize for job application, initial employment, and settling-in.

In her Senate Bill 2186 or the proposed Fresh Graduates P5,000 One-Time Cash Grant Act of 2023, Villar said young individuals who recently graduated from college and seeking decent means of livelihood often face a common dilemma.

The bill will complement existing legislation, specifically Republic Act 11261 or the First Time Job Seekers Assistance Act.

The senator explained while the law currently prohibits government agencies from collecting fees or charges from first-time job seekers in relation to the application for employment certificates or documents, there is a need for further support.

The proposed bill aims to provide fresh graduates with a one-time cash grant of P5,000 as a productivity/earnest fund.

The grant serves as financial resource that can be utilized to cover expenses associated with employment applications, transportation costs, and initial settling-in expenses if the individual secures a job within a reasonable timeframe.

The bill aims to support and empower fresh graduates in their pursuit of employment and financial stability.